When is Your Small Business Big Enough to Need a Lawyer?

Many small business owners realize the importance of hiring a lawyer when they’re just starting, but most don’t consider it an ongoing expense. But, any Missouri corporate law attorney worth their salt will tell you that keeping a good business attorney around offers a range of advantages. You may not have the type of business where it’s necessary to keep one on retainer, and there are some issues where you can proceed without a lawyer. But, legal advice should be part of your ongoing cost of doing business for a few reasons.

Legal Problems You Can Tackle Yourself

Although several of these matters are legal matters, paying an hourly fee or a retainer to have a lawyer handle them might be an unnecessary expense. There are plenty of legal resources online and legal blogs that offer solid advice. Just make sure you choose one with a reputation for providing accurate information that’s applicable to your state and type of business.

You’ll probably be okay without an attorney if you’re:

Drawing up a business plan, partnership agreement or LLC operating agreement

Choosing a business or domain name; those that are taken or trademarked can be found with a quick web search

Applying for an Employer Identification Number (EIN)

Applying for licenses or permits

Hiring staff

Updating business agreements or terms of sale

Filling out IRS or tax documents

When You Need an Attorney

If you have better-than-average legal knowledge, you can probably do a few more things on your own. However, there are some situations where having a lawyer is imperative. These are issues where you could be in legal jeopardy, when the situation is extremely complex or when not having an air-tight contract could cause you problems down the road. A few examples would include:

You’re being sued by a former employee for a matter pertaining to harassment or discrimination

You’re entering into a merger, acquiring another company or selling your business

You or your company are being investigated at the state, local or federal level

Your company is implicated in an environmental issue, even if you weren’t directly involved

When choosing a lawyer, find one that specializes in business and tax law, and who has practical experience in your type of industry. You’ll find that a trustworthy corporate attorney is a good business partner to have around.

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